Mountain Top Resort

Mountain Top Resort, situated on 700 private acres in Chittenden, Vermont, presents itself as a comprehensive destination travel experience, leveraging its stunning natural surroundings to offer more than just a place to sleep. With sweeping views of a vast lake and the Green Mountains, its primary draw is undeniably its location. The resort operates year-round, positioning itself as a hub for both seasonal activities and, most notably, as a premier wedding and events venue. However, a closer look at guest experiences reveals a notable contrast between the spectacular setting and the execution of fundamental hospitality services.

An Outdoor Enthusiast's Paradise

For travelers seeking an active getaway, Mountain Top Resort offers an impressive roster of activities that cater to all seasons. During warmer months, guests have access to a private beach, kayaking, canoeing, pontoon boat rides, and paddleboarding on the lake. On land, the options are just as varied, including horseback riding, clay bird shooting, tennis, pickleball, and miles of hiking trails. This makes it a compelling choice for adventure travel and active family vacations.

Winter transforms the property into a classic Vermont escape, complete with 60km of cross-country ski trails, snowshoeing paths, an ice-skating rink, and a sledding hill reserved for overnight guests. The availability of horse-drawn sleigh rides adds a quintessential New England touch to the experience. Many of these activities are included for those staying at the resort, which adds significant value and encourages guests to immerse themselves in the environment without leaving the property.

The Wedding Experience: A Clear Strength

Where Mountain Top Resort consistently earns its highest praise is in its capacity as a venue for weddings and large events. With multiple scenic ceremony sites, from a picturesque knoll overlooking the lake to a rustic-elegant barn, the resort provides a visually stunning backdrop that many couples seek for wedding travel. Reviews frequently highlight the professionalism and helpfulness of the dedicated wedding coordinators, who are credited with ensuring events run smoothly. The quality of food served at these functions is also noted as being top-notch. This specialization appears to be the core of their business, and they execute it with a high degree of success, making them a reliable tour operator for large-scale private events.

A Critical Look at Accommodations and Service

Despite the resort's strengths, feedback from guests reveals significant inconsistencies, particularly concerning accommodations and general services for non-event-related stays.

Lodging: Comfort and Amenities in Question

While the resort offers a range of lodging from rooms in the main lodge to private guest houses, comfort is not guaranteed. Multiple guests have reported that the beds and pillows are extremely uncomfortable, severely impacting their quality of sleep. This is a critical failure for any lodging establishment, especially one commanding a premium price point. Further detracting from the experience are reports of missing basic amenities that guests expect at this level. Several reviews mention the lack of full-length mirrors, inadequate bathroom lighting and counter space, and hangers unsuitable for formal wear—all significant inconveniences, especially for those attending a wedding. Maintenance issues, such as a broken hot water faucet in a sink, have also been reported, suggesting a potential lapse in quality control.

Service: A Tale of Two Tiers

The level of service appears to vary dramatically depending on the context. While the event staff receives accolades, the service at the resort's general dining facilities has been described as inconsistent and, at times, poor. One guest recounted waiting over 40 minutes for a server at dinner despite having a reservation. Others noted that the breakfast buffet was poorly maintained, with items like coffee, juice, and fruit not being replenished in the last hours of service. Bar staff during a wedding were described as "standoffish" and unwelcoming. This suggests a potential disparity between the highly-managed event services and the day-to-day hospitality offered to all guests.

Final Assessment

Mountain Top Resort is an establishment of contrasts. On one hand, it is an objectively beautiful property with an outstanding array of activities and a proven track record as a first-class wedding venue. For those planning a large event or seeking an activity-packed outdoor vacation where the scenery is the main attraction, it holds immense appeal.

On the other hand, prospective guests must weigh these positives against credible reports of fundamental shortcomings. Uncomfortable bedding, missing in-room amenities, and inconsistent restaurant service are significant drawbacks that detract from the luxury image the resort aims to project. For a nightly rate that can approach $400 even with a discount, such issues move from minor annoyances to serious value concerns. Potential visitors should carefully consider their priorities: if a breathtaking view and access to activities are paramount, this resort is a strong contender. However, if a comfortable night's sleep and consistently attentive service are non-negotiable, the reported flaws warrant serious consideration before booking a stay.